Aloha Performing Arts Company will hold open auditions for volunteer performers for the hard-driving rock musical “Jesus Christ Superstar” at the Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu at 6 p.m. on Dec. 19 and 20. A possible invitational call-back audition may be
Aloha Performing Arts Company will hold open auditions for volunteer performers for the hard-driving rock musical “Jesus Christ Superstar” at the Aloha Theatre in Kainaliu at 6 p.m. on Dec. 19 and 20. A possible invitational call-back audition may be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 21. No experience is necessary, and newcomers are encouraged to audition.
“Jesus Christ Superstar,” by the legendary team of Tim Rice and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, is the show which popularized the term “rock opera.” It dramatically relates the events in the final week of Jesus’ life, and examines his relationships with Judas, Mary Magdalene, and God. The 1970 concept album led to the 1971 Broadway debut and many revivals throughout the world over the years, as well as a movie version in 1973.
APAC artistic director Jerry Tracy will direct, Bernaldo Evangelista is music director, Marinella Savarese is vocal director, and Ellen Farnsworth is choreographer. The production will feature a live rock and roll band under the baton of music Evangelista.
Evangelista will also play the role of King Herod, but all other roles are open, and casting consideration will not be limited by traditional gender assignments. Roles include Judas Iscariot, Jesus Christ, Mary Magdalene, Caiaphas, Annas, Simon Zealotes, Pontius Pilate, Maid by the Fire, Old Man by the Fire, and Peter. Also needed is a large ensemble of singers, dancers, and actors of all sizes, shapes, colors, and genders to portray apostles, priests, soldiers, merchants, lepers, vagrants, reporters, citizens, worshipers and bystanders.
Scores are available for perusal at the APAC office, by arrangement with Managing Director Melissa Geiger. Each person auditioning must prepare 16 bars, or about one minute, of a song. Sheet music will be available for songs from “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and an accompanist will be provided. If a song from another source is chosen, the person auditioning must provide the accompanist with sheet music in the proper key. No a capella or karaoke style auditions will be allowed.
In addition to the singing portion of the audition, candidates will be asked to read, choosing from a list of speeches provided, as well as learn a short movement routine in a group. Sturdy, closed shoes are required. Slippers will not be allowed. Candidates will be seen in small groups, in order of arrival. Attendance at one of the audition nights is sufficient; attending both nights is not necessary.
Rehearsals will begin Dec. 26 and will generally be held on Sunday afternoons and Monday through Thursday evenings. The show runs for five weekends, performing on Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons, Feb. 10-March 12.
In addition to performers, support staff is also sought, including backstage helpers, make-up and hair artists, seamstresses, set builders, set painters, concession workers, and ushers. Those interested in any of these volunteer positions are encouraged to attend auditions to fill out a registration form, or to contact APAC at info@apachawaii.org.
Info: 322-9924.
